Sagem (Safran group) has won a new order from Nexter Systems for 285 MOP panoramic observation systems, and the same number of EPS-LT stabilized pointing systems. They will be used on the VBCI armored infantry fighting vehicle, developed and produced by Nexter for the French army.

Eurosatory 2010, Villepinte, June 14, 2010

The MOP is a panoramic observation system intended for the vehicle commander. It comprises a stabilized two-axis pointing platform with a non-cooled thermal imager. Operating day or night, stationary or on the move, the MOP provides panoramic observation capabilities around the vehicle, plus target designation via the gunner's sight. With functions slaved to the episcope and the chassis centerline, the MOP also provides driving assistance.

This latest order for the MOP confirms its key role in the operation of infantry fighting vehicles, especially within the scope of asymmetrical combat, to protect both the vehicle and its combat section.

The EPS-LT (light turret), fitted with gyrometric sensors, provides directional control and stabilization for the VBCI's weapons, for precise shooting on the move of its 25mm cannon and 7.62mm machine gun.

The MOP and EPS-LT are in volume production and have been deployed on the French army's VBCIs since 2009. Including previous acquisitions, this latest contract brings the total number of VBCIs using Sagem's MOP and EPS-LT to a total of 521.

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Sagem, a high-tech company in the Safran group, holds world or European leadership positions in optronics, avionics, electronics and safety-critical software for both civil and military markets. Sagem is the No. 1 company in Europe and No. 3 worldwide for inertial navigation systems (INS) used in air, land and naval applications. It is also the world leader in helicopter flight controls and the European leader in optronics and tactical UAV systems.

Operating across the globe through the Safran group, Sagem and its subsidiaries employ 6,700 people in Europe, Southeast Asia and North America.